3rd gen maximas are about 3000 lbs…that pretty light for a sedan…and J30s are close to 3600 lbs 5sp maximas are more to drive than J30s…of course i am going to biased I have owned 3 maximas and prolly will own another…I have driven J30s they are nice and comfy…but if he keeps it and turns it into an Auto-x car Maxima will be better